UHP won't cross-deputize troopers for immigration lawl

SALT LAKE CITY -- The Utah Highway Patrol does not want to take advantage of a program to cross-deputize troopers as immigration agents.

The UHP has joined a growing line of departments that want nothing to do with a controversial part of a new immigration bill, SB81.

According to the Salt Lake Tribune, Utah Department of Public Safety Director Lance Davenport says the decision is mostly about money. He says if the Legislature wants troopers to become immigration agents, they need more resources. State budge cuts already have forced them to have fewer troopers.

Davenport also told a Latino town hall meeting Wednesday night he's mainly concerned about traffic safety and making sure everyone feels safe in Utah, including immigrants.

The highway patrol is one of the largest police agencies in Utah.

Salt Lake City Police Chief Chris Burbank has declined to have his officers cross-deputized. West Valley police won't participate, either.

Salt Lake County will enforce immigration laws only against inmates booked into its jail.

Lawmakers passed SB81 last year. It will go into effect July 1. It gives police agencies the option of enforcing federal immigration laws.